The Gray Area with Sean Illing Trumpism never existed. It was always just Trump.
Oct 22, 2020
Julius Krein, the Editor of American Affairs, initially backed Trump but later distanced himself from his presidency. He discusses the illusion of Trumpism as a cohesive ideology and argues the U.S. operates as a one-party system. Krein critiques the disconnect between Republican elites and their base, suggesting the need for a new bipartisan economic framework. He explores the challenges of governance for right-wing populists and the potential shift in the GOP's direction after the upcoming election. Krein’s insights offer a unique lens on American political dynamics.
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Trump's Presidency vs. Trumpism
- Trump's presidency mirrors a standard Republican one, marked by conventional policies and provocative rhetoric.
- His administration lacks a distinct positive agenda, resembling Bush-era conservatism.
Platonic Trumpism
- A potential Trumpist agenda could focus on re-industrialization and strengthening state capacity.
- This would involve improving domestic firms' abilities and supporting the labor market.
Krein's Journal and Trump
- Krein's journal, American Affairs, aimed to define a populist right ideology distinct from the left.
- It was initially a pro-Trump blog which unexpectedly gained popularity.
